Wiki accidental fall

[paula f3]

Hello
Wondering would it be appropriate to code a 60 foot fall while mountain climbing. I am using E884.1, fall from cliff, or should I use E888.9 accidental fall?

Paula

 

[Walker22]

I think E884.9 better suits the situation. If the patient was on the side of a mountain when he fell, then he wasn't necessarily on a cliff. E884.9 specifies "embankment", and the side of a mountain is technically an embankment, I guess.

 

[wsyer10@yahoo.com]

Always check with the insurance provider. If you are ever in question about a specific code the provider will tell you which one to use.

William Syer, CPC-A

 

[Walker22]

Always check with the insurance provider. If you are ever in question about a specific code the provider will tell you which one to use.

William Syer, CPC-A

I'm sorry, but I must respectfully disagree. I don't know any insurer who will tell you what dx code to use. They haven't seen the patient, the doctor has. The sole responsibility for correct coding lies with the physician and his coding staff.